Get your DIY new year off to a good start …..

We all start the year with resolutions and perhaps it might be a good idea to get the clan around the table and agree some with regard to house maintenance!

Here’s mine for you to consider and in doing so keep your home in good condition and reduce maintenance costs:

1. Learn how to use the heating system timer and programme it wisely. Keep enough heating to stay above the dew point temperature and avoid the nasty effects of condensation.
2. Service the boiler annually and rod through chimney flues; consider crow guard protection to chimney pot.
3. Clean out wall vents, service extraction fans and KEEP THE BATHROOM DOOR CLOSED AT ALL TIMES AND OPEN THE WINDOW AFTER SHOWERS – fit a door closer if you have to!
4. Check there is an overrun of at least 15 minutes on the mechanical extraction fan in the bathroom or ensuite.
5. Check your attic for 300mm of insulation – easy to fit yourself if only 100 or 150mm.
6. Check the water tank – is the dust proof cover fitting snug, insulation in place and pipes lagged.
7. Clean out your gutters, check the joints and make sure the down pipes are not choked.
8. Clean out surface water gullies and rod the pipes ever so often.
9. Paint all external joinery timbers, particularly the fascia and soffit at least every 3 years.
10. Avoid the use of silicone or mastic. Get to the root of the problem and use a more sustainable solution such as a damp proof course, flashing or sand cement pointing.
11. Get yourself a set of tools and know what wrench fits what fitting in your own home. You only have to do it once and it is easy from there onwards.
12. And don’t forget to test and replace batteries in all alarm systems including smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms.

If you need professional help contact your local Chartered Building Surveyor– details on the Society of Chartered Surveyors website at www.scsi.ie.

Contact Brian Duffy 087 6740507

E: Brian@mcgovernsurveyors.ie;